We visited Biltmore Estate on a rainy day. This was the first time we'd been to Biltmore and we were somewhat disappointed. Due to the rain, almost all of the activities were canceled and the only things left were regular house tours (rooftop tours were canceled).
We'd pre-paid for a carriage ride, which we were informed was canceled when we picked up our tickets. Well, the canceled it, but they didn't refund it - we had to request that. So, if you pre-paid for any activities, make sure to ask the ticket desk for any cancellations or changes, 'cause they won't tell you without being prompted.
I've read a lot of reviews stating that you can't visit all of Biltmore in just one day - well you sure can if it's raining and there's not much to do. There don't seem to be any "rainy day alternatives." Here's what you can do during the rain:
*Tour the grounds by car, then foot. You can drive through much of the grounds to find parking lots or convenient paved pull-off areas. Take a raincoat, umbrella and boots and get out walking. Check out the waterfall at Bass Pond, the walled garden, the esplanade in front of the house, etc. We drove the entire property twice, just taking pictures for a while.
*Check out the Farm & Winery. This is where you'll find the horses you can't ride due to rain. You'll also see sheep, goats, chicken and donkeys. I can't review the winery because we didn't visit it. No one in our group was at all interested in this area of Biltmore.
*Shop. Actually, I was a little disappointed in the shopping at Biltmore. There are a lot of shops all over the property, but many of them sell the same things. In each one you can get key chains and magnets and a very few other small items. Otherwise much of the offerings are high-end knickknacks or home furnishings. And most of it's expensive and useless. I really had a hard time finding souvenirs for my family. There was a candy store, christmas store and toy store.
*Eat. There are multiple restaurants on the property, as well as many snack stands. The downside is that most of these eateries aren't open until 11am. Eat breakfast before you arrive and don't plan to eat until lunch. Also, expect to spend some money. We ate at the Stable Cafe, which was one of the middle priced restaurants, and a basic burger cost $10.
*The House. This is the one place that still has paid activities available. There was a house tour, though the rooftop tour was canceled. If you don't want a guided tour you can rent an audio tour or follow a self-guided brochure tour. Take your time and enjoy - there's a lot to see, from the Vanderbilt's bedrooms to the basement and servant's quarters. Also, take a look out the windows for some great views.
So, if possible, go on a sunny day. If you can't (like during my visit), take advantage of few activities available. In the end, we still found our visit to be enjoyable, but would rather it hadn’t rained.
From journal SC, NC trip